Spring Cleaning: Dust with Information

Are you glad for the arrival of spring? If you’re like me, spring cleaning is on your mind when the weather finally gets nice. Cluttered closets, jammed garages, plentiful attics stuffed with items that have not seen daylight in years – all of these spaces could use some attention this season.

WAIT BEFORE YOU THROW IT OUT

Before you fill up the trash can and recycling bins, make sure you know what it is you are throwing out. Specifically, watch out for things that could contain sensitive information that would be useful to a cybercriminal. Keep the following items in mind as you toss them out:

Printers

Scanners

Multi-function devices

Old computers

Smart tvs

Game consoles

Fax machines

Old wireless routers

Almost all of the items mentioned could contain some type of hard drive storing your information. If found by a criminal, your information could be easily obtained.

WHAT TO DO

A simple internet search of the device’s name and “does it contain a hard drive” would be a good place to start. These online instructions will also contain ways to remove the storage device inside.

Another alternative, consider using a reputable electronics recycling service – one that provides a certificate of destruction. Finally, a good old fashioned hammer would work also.

Have another thought, tip or suggestion? Leave it in the comments below. I would love to hear from you!

Posted by Elvis Huff

Elvis Huff worked as an officer and network administrator for 12 years with the Lebanon Police Department and has also served as an adjunct professor in information systems at Cumberland University. Read More »

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If you have questions about online security, you’ve come to the right place! WB&T Security Director Elvis Huff has answers galore on staying safe in cyberspace. From tips on shopping securely to combating business-hacking fraudsters, Elvis can help you steer clear of danger (and keep things fun) in today’s complex technological landscape.